PORTLAND, Ore-Standing outside of a local hospital, it is common to see florist vans arriving with the latest bunch of get well flowers and balloons. However, hospitals are beginning to pop those well wishes by banning latex balloons from their healthcare centers.
Providence Health System of Portland has banned latex balloons because there are both patients and healthcare workers (HCWs) allergic to the material. Allergic reactions can include skin rashes and asthma. Some severe reactions can be lethal.
There are three hospitals in the Portland area following the ban. They are also phasing gout latex gloves.
